Sete Cidades Caldera

Nothing can prepare you for the majesty of the Sete Cidades Massif on the west side of São Miguel Island. Here twin green and blue lakes are ensconced in evergreen vegetation and shielded by a massive volcanic crater that rises like ramparts. This landscape has been shaped by successive volcanic events over the last 38,000 years. The last eruption might have been as recent as the 1400s, just before the island was colonised. There’s no lack of vantage points for astonishing views, but make a note of the Vista do Rei lookout on the southern rim next to the abandoned Monte Palace hotel.

Capelinhos

From September 1957 to October 1958 the profile of Faial Island changed forever when the Capelinhos volcano erupted. This gave birth to a whole new island, which then became linked to Faial by an isthmus. Also, the damage forced 1,800 people to emigrate permanently to the USA, even though there were no casualties. It’s a bit of a rush to be able to stand on a piece of land where there was just ocean 60 years ago, or see roofs submerged in ash. Photographs don’t give you a true impression of the awesome dimensions of this new patch of black volcanic desert. Check out the ruined lighthouse, which has been incorporated into a museum about the volcano.

Angra do Heroísmo

It wasn’t until the steam age arrived in the 19th century that transatlantic traffic could bypass this essential harbour on the Island of Terceira.

In the 15th and 16th centuries in particular it was a stepping stone for expeditions to the New World.

Angra do Heroísmo is a lovely, animated city with architecture mostly from the 1700s.

Rua da Sé is a treat, with its mosaic pavements and traditional houses with door and window frames painted in bright colours.

Pause for a photo of the cathedral, mill around the shops and get in touch with the rich history at the city’s museum .

Montanha do Pico

On Pico island is the highest point in all of Portugal, the Montanha do Pico at 2,351 metres.

Often seen disappearing into the clouds this stratovolcano can look threatening, and its most recent eruption happened in 1718. But what you might not realise at first glance is that it’s not too difficult to scale, and doesn’t require advanced equipment other than good hiking gear.

You have to sign in at the visitor centre before setting off, and the entire route to the summit is marked by wooden poles every 50 metres or so telling you the elevation.

If you’re fortunate enough to make the ascent on a clear day there’s a clear view of the islands of Graciosa, Faial, Terceira and São Jorge.